Roof Maintenance Checklist: The Complete Seasonal Guide for Myrtle Beach Homeowners (2026)
Protect your biggest investment with this comprehensive, season-by-season roof maintenance guide. Includes printable checklists, coastal-specific tips, and expert guidance from 18+ years of Myrtle Beach roofing experience.
David Karimi
Owner | GAF Master Elite | 18+ Years
Expert Review: This comprehensive guide was written and reviewed by David Karimi, a licensed South Carolina roofing contractor with 18+ years of experience serving Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. As one of only 3% of contractors nationwide with GAF Master Elite certification, his expertise ensures this maintenance advice meets the highest industry standards.
Why This Guide Matters
5-10 Years
Added roof life with maintenance
$10,000+
Saved vs. premature replacement
90%
Of roof problems are preventable
Myrtle Beach Reality: Our coastal climate—salt air, hurricanes, 50+ inches of rain, and intense UV—demands more vigilant roof maintenance than inland areas. This guide addresses our unique challenges.
What's in This Guide
Your roof is your home's first line of defense—and in Myrtle Beach, it faces a brutal combination of challenges: salt-laden coastal air that corrodes metal components, hurricane-force winds during a six-month storm season, intense UV radiation that breaks down shingles faster than inland areas, and 50+ inches of annual rainfall that tests every seal and flashing joint.
I'm David Karimi, owner of Weather Shield Roofing. In 18+ years of working on roofs across the Grand Strand, I've seen the same pattern hundreds of times: homeowners who ignore basic maintenance end up paying $15,000-$25,000 for premature roof replacement, while those who follow a simple seasonal checklist extend their roof's life by 5-10 years and save thousands.
This guide gives you everything you need to maintain your roof like a professional—season by season, with printable checklists you can bookmark or print. Whether you have asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or tile, you'll find specific maintenance requirements for your roof type.
The Cost of Neglect
According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, 80% of roof failures are caused by improper maintenance—not material defects or installation errors. A $200-$500 annual maintenance investment prevents $7,500+ emergency repairs.
Spring Maintenance Checklist
March - May | Post-Winter Inspection
Why Spring Matters in Myrtle Beach
Spring is your critical window between winter weather and hurricane season (June 1st). Winter storms, even mild ones, can damage shingles and seals. Catching and repairing issues now means your roof is ready for the intense demands of summer storms.
| Checkbox | Task | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Visual shingle inspection | Missing, cracked, curling, or lifted shingles | |
| Check all flashing | Rust, lifting, gaps, cracked sealant | |
| Clean gutters thoroughly | Winter debris, granule buildup, clogs | |
| Inspect downspouts | Blockages, proper drainage away from foundation | |
| Trim overhanging branches | Branches within 10 feet of roof | |
| Check attic ventilation | Blocked vents, condensation, mold | |
| Inspect soffits and fascia | Rot, peeling paint, pest damage, gaps | |
| Look for moss/algae growth | Green/black patches, especially north-facing | |
| Check chimney condition | Cracked mortar, damaged cap, flashing gaps | |
| Test attic for daylight | Any light visible through roof boards |
Pro Tip: Schedule your spring professional inspection by February. Once March hits, contractors book up quickly as everyone prepares for hurricane season. Call (843) 877-5539 to schedule your free spring inspection.
Summer Maintenance Checklist
June - August | Pre-Hurricane & UV Protection
Hurricane Season Is Here (June 1 - November 30)
Summer brings both peak UV exposure and hurricane season. Your focus should be on ensuring your roof can handle 100+ mph winds and driving rain. Address any vulnerabilities before tropical storms develop.
| Checkbox | Task | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Check hurricane straps/clips | Loose, missing, or corroded connectors | |
| Inspect attic ventilation | Excessive heat (should be within 10-15F of outside) | |
| Look for UV damage | Shingle cracking, brittleness, color fading | |
| Clear valleys of debris | Leaves, pine needles, granules blocking water flow | |
| Verify gutters are free-flowing | Any blockages, standing water after rain | |
| Check caulking/sealants | Cracking, separation, gaps around penetrations | |
| Post-storm inspection (after each storm) | Missing shingles, debris, damage | |
| Monitor for algae growth | Black streaks, especially on north-facing slopes |
Hurricane Alert: After any named storm or thunderstorm with 50+ mph winds, perform a ground-level visual inspection within 24-48 hours. Document any damage with photos before cleanup. If you suspect damage, call (843) 877-5539 for a free storm damage assessment.
Fall Maintenance Checklist
September - November | Pre-Winter Prep
Critical Window Before Winter
Fall is your last opportunity for major repairs before winter weather makes roof work difficult. Assess any hurricane season damage, prepare for winter rain and cooler temperatures, and ensure your roof is sealed tight for the coming months.
| Checkbox | Task | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Remove leaves from roof and gutters | Accumulated leaves, especially in valleys | |
| Assess hurricane season damage | Any issues missed during summer storms | |
| Inspect and recaulk all seals | Cracked or deteriorated caulking | |
| Check attic insulation | Compressed, wet, or displaced insulation | |
| Verify soffit vents clear | Insulation blocking vents, debris accumulation | |
| Trim fall growth on trees | New growth reaching toward roof | |
| Clean gutters (major cleaning) | Fall leaves, pine needles, accumulated debris | |
| Check pipe boots and vents | Cracked rubber, gaps, deterioration | |
| Inspect for animal damage | Holes, chewed areas, nesting materials | |
| Schedule professional fall inspection | Overall roof condition assessment |
Scheduling Tip: Book your fall professional inspection for October. November gets busy with pre-holiday scheduling, and any needed repairs should be completed before December's cooler, wetter weather.
Winter Maintenance Checklist
December - February | Interior Focus
Myrtle Beach Winters Are Mild But Still Demanding
While we don't face heavy snow or severe ice storms, winter brings increased rainfall, occasional freezes, and conditions that can reveal hidden moisture problems. Focus shifts to interior monitoring since exterior work is limited.
| Checkbox | Task | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly attic inspection | New water stains, frost, condensation | |
| Check ceilings and walls inside | Water spots, peeling paint, damp areas | |
| Monitor after heavy rains | Any new leaks or moisture intrusion | |
| Verify bathroom vents working | Moisture on bathroom ceilings, mold | |
| Check for ice dams (rare but possible) | Icicles at roof edge, water backing up | |
| Quick ground-level visual (monthly) | Major damage visible from ground | |
| Keep gutters clear | Blockages from winter debris |
Winter Planning: Use winter months to plan any major roof work for spring. Get quotes in January-February when contractors have more availability and may offer better scheduling.
Monthly Quick Checks (5 Minutes)
These quick visual checks take just 5 minutes from ground level and can catch problems before they become expensive emergencies. Do them on the same day each month (first Saturday, for example) to build the habit.
Scan roof line for sagging
Indicates structural problems requiring immediate attention
Look for debris on roof
Branches and debris trap moisture and damage shingles
Check gutters from ground
Overflowing or sagging gutters visible from below
Look for missing shingles
Visible gaps in roof surface expose underlayment
Inspect visible flashing
Lifted or damaged flashing around chimneys/vents
Check for pests at roofline
Birds, squirrels, and insects cause damage
Note any new stains on siding
May indicate gutter overflow or flashing failure
Walk property perimeter
Spot fallen shingles or debris from roof
Gutter Maintenance Guide
The #1 Maintenance Task for Roof Longevity
Clean gutters are the single most important factor in preventing roof and foundation damage. Clogged gutters cause water to back up under shingles, rot fascia boards, and damage foundations. In Myrtle Beach, with 50+ inches of annual rainfall, this is critical.
Cleaning Schedule
- 1
Late March (After pollen season)
Remove winter debris and pollen accumulation
- 2
Late June (Pre-hurricane)
Ensure gutters ready for heavy rain events
- 3
November (After leaves fall)
Major cleaning before winter rains
- 4
After major storms
Clear debris blown into gutters
What to Check
- Debris and leaf accumulation
- Granule buildup from shingles (indicates wear)
- Standing water (indicates improper slope)
- Secure attachment to fascia
- Rust or corrosion (especially with salt air)
- Proper sealing at seams
- Downspout connections secure
- Extensions directing water 4-6 feet from foundation
Gutter Guard Consideration: Quality gutter guards can reduce (not eliminate) cleaning frequency. However, they still require annual inspection and occasional cleaning. In our pine-heavy coastal area, fine needles and pollen can still cause issues.
Attic Inspection Checklist
What Your Attic Reveals About Your Roof
The attic is where roof problems first become visible. Water stains, mold, condensation, and daylight through the roof are all warning signs you can catch before they become major issues. Inspect quarterly and after any storm.
Moisture Signs
- Water stains on rafters
- Stains on sheathing/decking
- Wet or damp insulation
- Mold or mildew odor
- Active drips during rain
- Frost in cold weather
Ventilation Check
- Ridge vents unobstructed
- Soffit vents clear of insulation
- Gable vents open (if present)
- No excessive heat buildup
- Bathroom vents exit outside
- Dryer vent exits outside
Structure Check
- Daylight through roof boards
- Sagging rafters or trusses
- Cracked or broken rafters
- Pest damage (termites, rodents)
- Proper insulation coverage
- No compressed insulation
Safety Warning: Use proper lighting and watch your step. Only walk on rafters or trusses, never between them on insulation alone. If your attic is difficult to access or you're uncomfortable, schedule a professional inspection.
Professional Inspection Timing
| Roof Age / Situation | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| New roof (0-5 years) | Every 2 years |
| Middle-aged roof (5-15 years) | Annually |
| Older roof (15+ years) | Twice yearly (spring & fall) |
| After any major storm | Within 48 hours |
| Before/after buying a home | Independent inspection |
| Before insurance renewal | As needed |
What's Included in a Professional Inspection
- Complete shingle/surface examination
- All flashing and seal inspection
- Vent and penetration check
- Gutter and drainage assessment
- Attic ventilation evaluation
- Interior moisture detection
- Photo documentation
- Written condition report
- Remaining life estimate
- Maintenance recommendations
Weather Shield Roofing provides comprehensive inspections FREE of charge for Myrtle Beach homeowners.
DIY vs Professional Maintenance
| Task | DIY Safe? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground-level visual inspection | DIY OK | Use binoculars for detail |
| Gutter cleaning (single story) | DIY OK | Use proper ladder safety |
| Gutter cleaning (two story) | HIRE PRO | Height risk - hire professional |
| Debris removal from valleys | HIRE PRO | Requires roof access |
| Attic inspection | DIY OK | Watch footing, use flashlight |
| Minor caulking (ground level) | DIY OK | Small gaps at accessible areas |
| Flashing repair or replacement | HIRE PRO | Requires roofing expertise |
| Shingle replacement | HIRE PRO | Improper repair voids warranty |
| Moss/algae treatment | HIRE PRO | Can damage shingles if done wrong |
| Tree trimming near roof | HIRE PRO | Falling branch risk - hire arborist |
Safety First: Never walk on your roof without proper safety equipment and training. Falls from roofs cause hundreds of deaths and thousands of serious injuries annually. When in doubt, call a professional. The cost of a pro is far less than an emergency room visit.
Maintenance by Roof Type
Asphalt Shingles (Most Common)
Special Considerations:
- - Monitor granule loss in gutters (indicates wear)
- - Check for curling, cracking, or lifting
- - Algae/moss growth common on north-facing slopes
- - Salt air accelerates aging by 15-20%
Lifespan Expectations:
- - 3-tab shingles: 15-20 years (coastal)
- - Architectural: 20-25 years (coastal)
- - Premium (GAF HDZ): 25-30 years (coastal)
- - With proper maintenance: add 5-10 years to each range
Metal Roofing
Special Considerations:
- - Inspect fasteners annually (can loosen with expansion)
- - Check for rust spots, especially at cut edges
- - Monitor sealant at seams and penetrations
- - Salt air requires aluminum or galvanized steel
Lifespan Expectations:
- - Standing seam: 40-70 years
- - Exposed fastener panels: 25-40 years
- - Lower maintenance than shingles overall
- - Key: periodic cleaning and fastener checks
Tile Roofing (Clay/Concrete)
Special Considerations:
- - Never walk on tile (fragile, causes cracks)
- - Underlayment wears faster than tile itself
- - Check for cracked or displaced tiles
- - Inspect ridge caps and mortar
Lifespan Expectations:
- - Clay tile: 50-100+ years
- - Concrete tile: 40-75 years
- - Underlayment replacement: every 20-30 years
- - Professional inspection essential (can't DIY safely)
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I maintain my roof?▼
Perform basic maintenance at least twice per year—spring (March-April) and fall (September-October). In coastal Myrtle Beach, add inspections after major storms and monthly quick visual checks from the ground. Professional inspections should be annual for roofs over 5 years old.
What is the most important roof maintenance task?▼
Keeping gutters clean is the single most important task. Clogged gutters cause water backup under shingles, rot in fascia boards, and foundation damage. With 50+ inches of annual rainfall in Myrtle Beach, clean gutters at least quarterly and after every storm.
Can I do roof maintenance myself or should I hire a professional?▼
Many tasks are DIY-friendly: ground-level visual inspections, single-story gutter cleaning, attic checks, and debris monitoring. However, anything requiring roof access, flashing work, or shingle repair should be done by a licensed professional for safety and warranty protection.
How do I know if my roof needs professional maintenance?▼
Call a professional immediately if you notice: multiple missing or damaged shingles, visible sagging, active leaks, granule-filled gutters, damaged flashing, extensive moss or algae, or your roof is over 15 years old without recent inspection.
What is included in a professional roof maintenance inspection?▼
A thorough inspection includes: complete exterior examination of shingles, flashing, vents, and penetrations; attic inspection for moisture and ventilation; moisture detection; photo documentation; remaining life estimate; and written maintenance recommendations. Weather Shield provides this free.
How does salt air affect roof maintenance in Myrtle Beach?▼
Salt air accelerates corrosion of metal flashing, vents, and fasteners by 15-20% compared to inland areas. Annual inspection of all metal components is critical. Consider salt-resistant materials (aluminum, galvanized steel) for replacements.
When is the best time to schedule roof maintenance?▼
Spring (March-April) for post-winter repairs before hurricane season, and Fall (September-October) for post-hurricane assessment before winter. Book spring appointments by February; book fall appointments by September for best scheduling.
How long does roof maintenance extend the life of my roof?▼
Regular maintenance can extend roof lifespan by 5-10 years. A well-maintained shingle roof lasts 25-30 years versus 15-20 years for neglected ones. The ROI is significant—annual maintenance costs a fraction of premature replacement.
What should I check on my roof after a hurricane?▼
Check from ground level for: missing shingles, debris on roof, damaged flashing, bent gutters, fallen branches, and damaged vents. Look inside for water stains. Document everything with photos before cleanup. Wait 24-48 hours for conditions to stabilize before inspection.
Does roof maintenance affect my homeowners insurance?▼
Yes. Many carriers require maintenance documentation for roofs over 10-15 years. Documented maintenance helps with claims approval and some insurers offer discounts. Neglected roofs may result in claim denials or non-renewal. Keep records of all maintenance and inspections.
Get Your FREE Professional Roof Inspection
You have the checklists—now let the experts verify your roof's condition. Weather Shield Roofing provides comprehensive inspections at no cost and no obligation.
What's Included:
- Complete roof surface inspection
- All flashing and penetration check
- Attic ventilation assessment
- Photo documentation
- Written condition report
- Maintenance recommendations
Why Choose Us:
- GAF Master Elite Certified (top 3%)
- 5.0 Google Rating (73 reviews)
- 18+ years Myrtle Beach experience
- Licensed and insured in SC
- No high-pressure sales
- Family-owned local business
Serving Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, and all of Horry County
About the Author
David Karimi is a licensed South Carolina roofing contractor and owner of Weather Shield Roofing. With 18+ years of experience serving Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, he has inspected thousands of roofs and developed maintenance protocols specifically for coastal conditions. He is one of only 3% of contractors nationwide to earn GAF Master Elite certification.
Credentials: SC Licensed Contractor | GAF Master Elite | BBB Accredited | 5.0 Google Reviews (73 reviews)